Evidence-based fatherhood programs implemented by local partner organizations across South Carolina. NFI provides curricula like 24/7 Dad and InsideOut Dad used by community, corrections, and faith-based sites. Call the national office or visit online to locate a participating SC program near you. Most partner programs are free for enrolled dads; ask your referring agency about costs and group schedules.
Fatherhood programs in the US are funded through the federal Office of Family Assistance (OFA) under the Responsible Fatherhood grant program and through state and local initiatives. Programs typically focus on three areas: healthy marriage and relationship skills, responsible parenting, and economic stability (employment and financial literacy). Services often include peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, job training, help navigating child support, and reentry support for formerly incarcerated fathers. Organizations like the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) and Fathers' Rights Movement operate nationally; most states also have dedicated fatherhood coalitions and faith-based organizations running local programs. This directory includes federally-funded Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood (HMRF) grantees, state fatherhood coalitions, and community-based mentorship programs — all open to dads regardless of custody status.
Fatherhood Programs in South Carolina
South Carolina family courts handle divorce, custody, and support in each of its 16 judicial circuits. The Child Support Services Division operates under the Department of Social Services. Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant are the largest cities. South Carolina Legal Services is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program statewide.
More Fatherhood Programs in South Carolina
SC Center for Fathers and Families — Statewide fatherhood programs providing parenting education, mentoring, employment support, and peer groups for South Carolina dads. Trained
Richland County SHARE – Fatherhood — Father engagement programs including workshops, support groups, and employment assistance for Richland County and Midlands dads. SHARE conne
Pee Dee Healthy Start – Father Engagement — Father engagement and family support programs serving dads in the Pee Dee region. Programs include parenting classes, mentoring, and referra
Lowcountry Fatherhood Coalition — Father engagement and family support programs serving Charleston-area Lowcountry dads. The coalition connects fathers with parenting worksho
Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.
Who can join? Do I need custody?
Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).
Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?
Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.
How do fatherhood programs help with child support?
Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.